Each year, February 14th brings Valentine’s Day—a day of celebrating friendships, partners, and love in all its forms. In the United States, the holiday is mainly celebrated by going to restaurants, exchanging presents, and buying flowers and candy. Each Valentine’s Day, Americans spend billions of dollars signifying how important it is to show loved ones how much they mean. But what about Valentine’s Day traditions in other parts of the world?

Japan – In Japan, Valentine’s Day is primarily a day for women to give chocolates to the men in their lives. The practice, known as giri-choco, is often directed toward male coworkers or friends rather than romantic partners. A month later, on White Day—each March 14th—men return the favor by giving gifts, typically white chocolate, to the women who gave them chocolates on Valentine’s Day.

Italy – In Italy, Valentine’s Day—known as La Festa Degli Innamorati—is a romantic holiday and is celebrated similarly to how it is in the United States. Couples exchange gifts and go on romantic dates. But, in Italy, there is also a tradition of giving baci perugina, or Perugina chocolates, which come with romantic phrases printed on the wrappers.

Brazil – Valentine’s Day is known as Dia dos Namorados (Lover’s Day) in Brazil, and couples exchange gifts and go on romantic dates. However, in Brazil, Saint Anthony is also known as the “Saint of Love” and is celebrated on June 13th. It is traditional for couples to exchange gifts and go to church on this day.

Overall, while Valentine’s Day is a holiday of romance and love, different countries have their own traditions. Some countries focus on romantic love, while others include friends and family.

No matter when, where, or how you celebrate Valentine’s Day, we wish you and your loved ones a day full of love.